Teenagers are no strangers to taking on challenges. However, there is one challenge making a comeback on social media that could be deadly. The “Benadryl Challenge” urges people to take large doses – in some cases as much as 10 times the normal dose – of the drug diphenhydramine (Benadryl) in order to produce hallucinations.
We talked to Frank Cunningham, M.D., director of the Pediatric Emergency Department at JFK University Medical Center, to learn why the “Benadryl Challenge” is so harmful and how you can protect your teen.
What is Diphenhydramine and What Happens When You Overdose?
Diphenhydramine, more commonly known by the brand name Benadryl, is an antihistamine commonly used to treat allergies. Dr. Cunningham says the dose of Benadryl that kids are taking to hallucinate could be life-threatening, but any type of overdose of Benadryl can lead to dangerous symptoms.
Milder cases of diphenhydramine overdose can cause:
- Sleepiness
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
- Inability to pass urine
More severe cases of diphenhydramine overdose can lead to:
- Hallucinations
- Seizures
- Delirium
- Psychosis
- Coma
- Death
If you or someone you know has taken too much diphenhydramine, seek medical care right away by calling 911 or the N.J. Poison Control Center.
Can you die from the Benadryl Challenge?
YES! There have been several reports of kids ending up in the hospital and even dying as a result of the overdose, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which issued a strong public warning on the matter.
“Taking higher than recommended doses of the common over-the-counter (OTC) allergy medicine diphenhydramine (Benadryl) can lead to serious heart problems, seizures, coma or even death,” said the FDA in the warning.
“A purposeful overdose of this drug can cause all of these life-threatening conditions, even in otherwise healthy young adults,” says Dr. Cunningham. “It’s important to know that this challenge is dangerous – period.”
What can parents and caregivers do to help?
There are a few things you can do to prevent an overdose from diphenhydramine and other medications in your home.
- Lock up all prescription and over-the-counter medications in a location that’s out of sight.
- Read all labels to ensure the ingredients and proper dosing.
- Talk to your kids about these challenges and how they may affect them.
- Check in about your child’s social media usage. What are they seeing? Do you have access to their profiles?
Next Steps & Resources
- Meet our sources: Frank Cunningham, M.D.
- Make an appointment online with a pediatrician near you, or call 800-822-8905.
- Learn more about our Children’s Health services.
Find a doctor near me
Addiction Red Flags: How to Spot Them and What to Do
When does a behavior cross the line and become a harmful addiction? Our expert weighs in. Plus, three tips to support a loved one with addiction.
When Your Child’s Grades Drop
Child's grades dropping? Learn how Drs. Miller and Biller offer support and guidance to help your child. Call 800-822-8905.
What Are the Effects of Cyberbullying?
Understand cyberbullying effects on kids. Learn how Dr. Alcera helps families cope. Get support and resources now.
Frozen Honey Challenge, Is It Safe?
Frozen Honey Challenge safety? Dr. Tavarez explains potential risks. Learn about moderation and long-term health effects. Call 800-822-8905 for care.